PQP Part 2

Learning Engagement # 4

"3D printing is not just a technology; it's a gateway to a world of imagination, innovation, and endless possibilities. With every layer, we're sculpting the future in ways we once only dreamed of." ChatGPT

3D Design / Printing Using Tinkercad

The 3D printing process turns a whole object into thousands of tiny little slices, then makes it from the bottom-up, slice by slice. Those tiny layers stick together to form a solid object. Each layer can be very complex, meaning 3D printers can create moving parts like hinges and wheels as part of the same object.

Integrating 3D design and printing into a school environment offers exciting opportunities for hands-on learning and creativity. Principals need to consider several key factors to ensure a successful and effective implementation of 3D design and printing in their schools.

Choose three of the links below and review the content, with your current school in mind.

3D Printing Offers Ontario Students a  Foundation for 21ST Century Skills - Ontario Center for Innovation
How 3D Printing is Changing Education -eSchool News
What are the challenges and opportunities of 3D printing in education? - Linkedin
The Top 5 Benefits of 3D Printing in Education -Makerbot
3D Printing Creates a Whirlwind of Innovation in the Field of Education - Raised 3D

Review to the following topics and reflect on the questions:

Curriculum Integration:

1. How might 3D design and printing be a useful tool for educational administrators?

2. How do you envision integrating 3D printing technology into your school's curriculum to enhance student learning and engagement, and what steps would you take to ensure that both students and teachers are adequately supported in this integration?"

Professional Development:

1. What further training and support will educators need to effectively use 3D design software and manage the 3D printing process?

2. How might you ensure that these opportunities align with both their individual growth goals and the overall objectives of the school?"

Access to Technology and Resources:

1. What additional resources and budget does your school need to acquire and maintain new technology and software?

2. How and where will students equitably access the technology?

 Safety and Supervision:

1. What safety and supervision measures need to be in place to ensure students use 3D printing equipment and materials safely?

2. Is  the school ready for expansion of  3D  printing equipment?

Inclusivity and Equity:

1.  How can you ensure that all students, regardless of their background or abilities, have equal access to and opportunities for 3D design and printing?

2. What are some considerations for students with disabilities or learning differences when designing projects?

Tinkercad is a free online collection of software tools that help people all over the world think, create and make. Using Tinkercad, you are able to make all kinds of objects that you can print out using a 3D printer. Here are some helpful links to help you get started with Tinkercad. Tinkercad Tutorials and Lessons

If you do not have a Tinkercad login, create one, if you do, login:

Explore Tinkercad and the tutorials. 

Respond to the following:

1. Chose one of topic from above and respond to the questions.

2. In your role as principal, design something that your current school needs, provide the rationale for your design. 

3. If you are an expert at 3D design, modeling and printing, how can you use your expertise to assist first year principals? How can you push your own skill set forward?

4. As a Catholic School leader, list the points you would discuss with your Catholic School Council to support the purchase a one or additional school 3D printers.